Dr Marelie Steenekamp Paediatrician

12/11/2025

Follow the steps in the image to learn how to make a sugar-salt solution at home.

If your little one has diarrhoea and is no longer exclusively breastfed, you can help prevent dehydration by giving them a homemade sugar-salt solution (SSS) after each loose poo. It’s a simple mix that helps replace lost fluids.

But watch out for these danger signs:
❗ Drinking very little
❗ Sunken eyes
❗ Blood in the stool

If you notice any of these, take your child to the clinic immediately. Diarrhoea can be very serious in babies and young children.

Follow the steps in the image to learn how to make a sugar-salt solution at home.

It is also important to always wash your hands! Good hand hygiene practices reduce the risk of diarrhoea. Regular handwashing with soap and clean water during critical time, after changing the baby's nappy, after using the toilet and before preparing food really helps fight disease.

Share this post to help other mamas and caregivers know what to do. 💚

10/11/2025

A food allergy is a hypersensitivity reaction that involves the immune system (see what is an allergy). Although up to 20-30% of people believe they have a food allergy, studies show that between 2% and 5% of people suffer from a definite food allergy (see food allergy). Cow’s milk allergy affects...

10/11/2025

10/11/2025

Here's why pediatricians recommend vaccines with confidence. As vaccine misinformation comes from the highest levels, they will continue to be there for you to support important parenting decisions.​

09/11/2025

Tips to prevent :

Choose foods rich in iron, folate, vitamin A and B12.

08/11/2025

07/11/2025

When your child is sick, it can be tough to know when they’re ready to go back to school. To help prevent the spread of germs, keep your child home if they may still be contagious. While it’s usually fine for children to return to school with a mild cough or runny nose, remind them to practice healthy habits — like covering coughs and washing hands often.

If your child has been sick, it is recommended that they stay home until they are free from:
• Fever (without medication) for 24 hours
• Vomiting for 24 hours
• Diarrhea for 24 hours
• Rashes

06/11/2025

Every child deserves the protection and chance to grow, learn, play, and explore the world safely.

✅ Check your child’s Road-to-Health Card
✅ Make sure their vaccines are up to date
✅ Visit your nearest clinic for catch-up vaccinations

A visit today to the clinic can protect their future tomorrow

A pregnant woman or mom can register for MomConnect health tips and appointment reminders:
Send “join” on WhatsApp to 079 631 2456 (or click this link) Dial *134*550*2 # (free)
You will need a clinic code from a nurse to complete the registration.
https://www.health.gov.za/momconnect/
https://sidebyside.co.za/